EAA member – ÖKF FishLife (Austria) – awards “Wilde Wasser – Enns und Talbachklamm” with FishLife AWARD 2025

The Austrian member of the European Anglers Alliance (EAA), ÖKF FishLife – Österreichisches Kuratorium für Fischerei und Gewässerschutz, has awared “Wilde Wasser – Enns und Talbachklamm” with the FishLife AWARD 2025.

In a time when our natural habitats are increasingly under threat, the protection of near-natural rivers and streams is gaining more and more importance. Flowing waters are not only refuges for countless animal and plant species but also essential spaces for recreation and vital assets for regional economies. The citizens’ initiative Wilde Wasser – Enns und Talbachklamm demonstrates in an impressive way how committed people can help safeguard the uniqueness and diversity of our “wild waters” – and preserve them for future generations.

The FishLife AWARD 2025 goes to Styria

On 1 October 2025, the dedicated citizens’ initiative Wilde Wasser – Enns und Talbachklamm was honoured with the FishLife AWARD 2025. Heinz Heistinger, President of the Austrian Board for Fisheries and Water Protection (ÖKF), and Sonja Behr, Executive Director of the ÖKF, presented the award in recognition of the group’s tireless commitment to preserving two of Austria’s last unspoiled rivers. The FishLife AWARD thus goes to Styria for the second consecutive year.
“Protecting nature means safeguarding our quality of life. People long for water, for vibrant rivers and untouched landscapes that offer tranquillity and genuine experiences of nature — also in the spirit of sustainable tourism,”emphasises Heinz Heistinger, President of Austrian EAA member ÖKF.

Raising awareness – a strong signal for the protection of Enns and Talbachklamm

The initiative Wilde Wasser – Enns und Talbachklamm has been actively opposing the construction of small hydropower plants in sensitive stretches of the Enns River and the Talbach Gorge, sending a powerful message for the responsible stewardship of Austria’s remaining free-flowing rivers.

“In light of today’s opportunities for solar and wind power, the expansion of small hydropower has no significant relevance for energy security,” explains Franz Zefferer, chairman of the citizens’ initiative.
Such interventions would not only cause serious ecological damage but also endanger the region’s tourism and economic value. With great dedication, scientific support, and broad public outreach, the initiative has strengthened awareness of the ecological importance and need to protect native rivers. It provides information about the environmental risks of small hydropower projects, organises public information events, and runs an online petition that has already gained nearly 5,000 supporters. In addition, the group is supporting the legal process to have the Talbachklamm placed under environmental protection.
This initiative is a striking example of how civil society, science, and public authorities can work together effectively to protect our rivers.
“With great commitment, Wilde Wasser – Enns und Talbachklamm raises awareness among the public and sends a strong signal for living river landscapes and endangered fish species. Their work serves as a model and an inspiration for active river conservation,” says Sonja Behr, Executive Director of the ÖKF.

About the FishLife AWARD

The FishLife AWARD is presented annually to individuals or initiatives that make a significant contribution to the protection of aquatic habitats and environmental education. The award’s aim is to raise awareness of the ecological connections within aquatic environments and to make visible those efforts whose impact reaches far beyond their own communities, creating positive momentum for people, nature, and the environment.
Text: Sonja Behr (ÖKF)
Photos: Martin Huber, Franz Zefferer

Pictures

(c): Martin Huber
Heinz Heistinger and Sonja Behr (ÖKF) with the dedicated members of the citizens’ initiative, Vice Mayor Maria Drechsler, and Markus Kraml (District Chairman, Styrian Fisheries Association) at a restored section of the Enns River.

 

(c): Martin Huber
Heinz Heistinger and Sonja Behr (ÖKF) presenting the FishLife AWARD 2025 to Chairman Franz Zefferer (middle).

(c) Franz Zefferer
Information boards have been installed to draw attention to the ecological significance of the Enns and Talbachklamm.

 

 

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